Second English Civil War

The Second English Civil War (1648-1649) was the second of three wars collectively known as the English Civil War. The Second Civil War occurred when King Charles I of England made a secret deal with the Scots to establish Presbyterianism in both Scotland and England for three years in exchange for Scottish support in restoring him to power. The sporadic royalist uprisings were crushed at the Battle of Preston, and King Charles was executed as a result. In addition, the monarchy was finally abolished and replaced by the English Commonwealth.

War
The imprisoned King Charles I of England reached a secret deal with Scottish nobles and succeeded in starting a second civil war. Under the "Engagement" of 1647, he offered to establish the Presbyterian Church (in both Scotland and England) for three years in return for their support. The deal split the Kirk: powerful figures were against getting involved. Even so, in 1648, the Duke of Hamilton led an invasion, promting a royalist revival south of the border.

Cromwell's defeat of the Scots at Preston caused this to collapse quickly. Some members of the Long Parliament still wanted an accomodation with the King, fearing the power of the New Model Army. Pride's Purge amounted to a military coup: officers led by Colonel Thomas Pride prevented moderates from entering the House of Commons chamber to vote. The hardline "Independents" had their way, and Charles was tried and executed.